Refrigeration Optimization Program (OPTER)

Program description

As part of its efforts to modernize Québec hockey arenas and curling rinks, the Department is encouraging the use of energy efficient refrigeration equipment. This program supports owners of arenas in an effort to optimize existing refrigeration systems. Apart from the substantial amount of energy they consume, the systems often use refrigerants that are harmful to the environment, as they produce greenhouse gases that could be curbed or eliminated altogether. Synthetic refrigerants can be replaced with natural refrigerants, which produce much less pollution and are often more effective than conventional refrigerants.

This program is financed as part of the PACC action plan (Plan d'action sur les changements climatiques 2006-2012).

Program objectives

The goal of the refrigeration optimization program (OPTER) is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. It has three main objectives:

optimizing heat recovery systems by integrating the refrigeration, heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
adapting the refrigeration system to climactic conditions in Québec
using more environmentally safe refrigerants and reducing the amount of refrigerants in the systems.

Eligible infrastructures

To be eligible, a new or existing building must:

contain one or more ice surfaces (for hockey, curling, figure skating, speed skating, or for other sports or recreational activities practiced on ice)
contain heated indoor areas
be equipped with a heating and ventilation system
be equipped with ice-making machinery, and
be located in the province of Quebec

The presented projects must show a potential for reducing GHG emissions, even if it is minimal. However, facilities that have received a financial contribution within the past five years for the purchase and installation of a system that is similar to those covered by this program are not eligible.

Training

The training offered introduces managers and technicians to the ecological, energy and economic benefits of upgrading refrigeration systems in a hockey arena or curling rink. Please contact us for more information.

Feasibility study

The feasibility study is a technical and cost-based evaluation of energy efficiency measures and means of reducing greenhouse gases for hockey and curling rinks. Each proposed measure includes an estimated ROI (return on investment).

Implementation

The program enables owners to install more energy efficient equipment during renovations or for new construction projects. Owners improve the energy performance of their buildings, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit from recurrent savings for years to come.

Vous pouvez estimer le montant d’aide financière OPTER à partir des paramètres techniques de votre projet en utilisant l'Outil d'estimation de l'aide financière (XLS | 1 037 Ko).